2025 Holiday Calendar Guide

Maximise your annual leave in 2025 to get the most out of the holidays. We have put together the ultimate calendar guide to help you strategically plan around public holidays and weekends.

2025

2min read

Published 20 November 2024

Flight Centre Author

Digital Campaign & Partnerships Lead


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Maximise your annual leave in 2025 to get the most out of the holidays. We have put together the ultimate calendar guide to help you strategically plan around public holidays and weekends.


Sometimes, your annual leave may not seem sufficient enough, but there are many 2025 holidays that you can maximise your leave on and get a long weekend or a much-needed break, perfect for a local getaway or a longer holiday to explore international waters.


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South African Public Holidays 2025

The Public Holidays Act plays a pivotal role in shaping the 2025 calendar. This act stipulates that when a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes a bonus holiday.

So, start strategising by pencilling in the official 2025 public holidays:

  • 1 January: New Year’s Day
  • 21 March: Human Rights Day
  • 18 April: Good Friday*
  • 21 April: Family Day
  • 27 April: Freedom Day
  • 28 April: Public holiday Freedom Day
  • 16 June: Youth Day
  • 9 August: National Women’s Day
  • 24 September: Heritage Day
  • 16 December: Day of Reconciliation
  • 25 December: Christmas Day
  • 26 December: Day of Goodwill

Note: The lunar cycle determines the exact dates of the Easter weekend.

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Local Holiday Destination recommendations:

South Africa has so many beautiful local gems to explore. From the Cape Winelands, warm beaches in Durban, and Drakensberg mountains to spotting the Big 5 in the Kruger National Park - to mention a few. The best part? You can turn it into a road trip, which is half the fun! Let's dive into a few local destinations for you to consider on the next long weekend:

The Western Cape:

This bucket-list destination embodies and embraces the good life, from fine dining, theatres and buzzing bars to outdoor and cultural hotspots and, of course, the iconic Table Mountain. With its rich diversity from cuisine to culture and wildflowers to whales, combining the best of the Western Cape in one trip is easy.

Best months to travel: January to March (long clear days and sunny skies)

Durban:

This beautiful city by the sea is home to a fascinating convergence of friendly cultures, golden beaches and lush natural beauty. There is so much to experience in sun-kissed Durban at a fraction of the cost of travelling overseas.

Best months to travel: May to September (subtropical climate and stunning beaches)

Drakensberg:

This magnificent region in South Africa has many accommodation options as well as exceptional spa resorts, so if you are looking to go somewhere to unwind, have a massage or two, read a book and not move for days, with breathtaking scenery to enjoy, then the Drakensberg is perfect for you.

Best months to travel: April to May (temperature is mild with less rainfall)

Clarens:

Clarens offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor activities, making it a fantastic tourist destination. It is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including rolling hills, sandstone cliffs, and the pristine waters of nearby Lake Clarens.

Best months to travel: September to November & March to May (mild and pleasant, making it ideal for the outdoors)

Dullstroom:

Dullstroom is a tranquil highland town that attracts visitors with its charming serenity and scenic beauty. Nestled amidst rolling hills and crisp mountain air, Dullstroom is renowned for its freshwater fishing adventures, particularly trout fishing in the numerous dams and lakes that adorn the landscape.

Best months to travel: May to June (warm days and cool evenings)

The Kruger National Park:

There's no place on earth like Kruger National Park! The Kruger offers visitors a wide variety of places to stay, from camping/caravanning facilities to traditional bungalows situated in fenced camps to exclusive, luxurious lodges along the Crocodile River. If you are seeking a peaceful retreat and the chance to see the Big 5, then The Kruger is your answer.

Best months to travel: May to October (best best game viewing conditions)

Of course, there are many more local gems in South Africa to explore, so if you are looking for something different, no need to worry, as our Flight Centre Travel Experts will be able to take you anywhere.

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International Holiday recommendations:

Mauritius:

Mauritius is the place for you if you're looking for the perfect Indian Ocean destination to kick back and relax. This tropical holiday spot features everything you could desire, including powdery sand beaches, azure waters, and palm trees gently swaying in the breeze.

Best months to travel: April to June & September to December (pleasant weather with the occasional rainfall)

Zanzibar:

Zanzibar is one of the most magical places on earth! This island has a vibrant energy with bright, colourful communities, picturesque architecture, aged buildings with dazzling beaches, exciting and fun attractions, loads of cultural experiences and scenery that will take your breath away.

Best months to travel: June to October (perfect weather conditions for long sunny days)

United States of America:

The USA offers a different kind of cultural experience. American cities like New York and San Francisco are cultural giants where you can experience world-class museums, diverse cuisines, and vibrant nightlife. And, of course, you'll recognise plenty of Hollywood scenes!

Best months to travel: May to June for the North, March to May & September to November for the South

Europe:

Europe is incredible because it offers a diverse range of cultures in a relatively small space. Each country boasts its own unique identity, language, and traditions. From snowy mountains to stunning landscapes, charming streets, and some of the best beaches in the world, Europe has something for everyone.

Best months to travel: March to June & September to November (less crowded, so more to do and see)

Asia:

Whether it's trying new foods in Thailand, lazing on the beautiful beaches of Bali or exploring some of Asia's most impressive cities like Singapore or Hong Kong, you are in for a treat. Friendly people, delicious cuisine, rolling landscapes, and stunning beaches await you.

Best months to travel: The best time to explore Asia varies by region (Southeast Asia: November to February; East Asia: March to May and September to November; South Asia: October to March; Central Asia: April to June and September to October)

United Kingdom:

Very few cities combine history, culture, nightlife, a vibrant foodie scene, shopping, and sheer personality into a world-class package quite the way the UK does. Whether it's winding your way up the centuries-old spiral staircase in the Tower of London, enjoying a footy game outside of London or looking to experience a picturesque white Christmas, there's a Royal experience for everyone.

Best months to travel: May to September and December (Take advantage of the warmer mid-year weather to enjoy some of the UK's most popular events, or get in the holiday spirit with a winter break)

The world is your oyster, and with that comes an array of captivating destinations from which to choose. No matter where you decide is next on your holiday list, whether it's a fun-filled family road trip, a romantic honeymoon in Mauritius or exploring quaint cities in Europe with friends, a Flight Centre Travel Expert will help you plan the ultimate holiday. Check out our 2025 Holiday Calendar guide to make the most of your time off. Explore our holiday deals here.

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